Next Generation Lithium-ion Cell Chemistry for Space Applications

Yardney Technical Products (YTP) has a long history of supplying high performance batteries for demanding military and aerospace applications. With its start in the 1940’s developing Silver/Zinc batteries for Navy applications through to the start of its Lithium-ion technology in the late 1990’s, Yardney has successfully delivered many chemistries and designs specifically tailored to the exacting requirements of a broad range of applications. Yardney has recently developed a Next Generation Lithium-ion chemistry to continue supporting planetary, satellite, and deep space missions, as well as NASA’s next manned mission capability, the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV). Enhancements in this new chemistry include increased energy density, lower impedance (to support higher rate capability) and improved high temperature stability. Initial results from Next Generation cell tests are demonstrating up to 20% increase in capacity (for a fixed cell volume) as well as improvements in rate capability, stability and long-term performance. This Next Generation chemistry has already been incorporated into many terrestrial applications, including UAVs and torpedo systems, and is being qualified for both Manned and Unmanned space applications. Nomenclature Ah = ampere hour DoD = Depth of Discharge LNCO = Lithiated Nickel Cobalt Oxide LNCA = Lithiated Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide MCMB = Mesocarbon Microbeads SOC = State of Charge V = voltage (DC) Wh = watt hour